What Skincare Specialists Do

Skincare specialists cleanse and beautify the face and body to enhance a person’s appearance.  

Duties

Skincare specialists typically do the following:

• Evaluate clients’ skin condition and appearance
• Discuss available treatments and determine which products will improve clients’ skin quality
• Remove unwanted hair using wax or laser treatment
• Clean the skin before applying makeup
• Recommend skincare products, such as cleansers, lotions, or creams 
• Teach and advise clients on how to apply makeup and how to take care of their skin
• Refer clients to other skincare specialists, such as a dermatologist, for serious skin problems
• Sterilize equipment and clean work areas

Skincare specialists give facials, full-body treatments, and head and neck massages to improve the health and appearance of the skin. Some may provide other skincare treatments, such as peels, masks, or scrubs, to remove dead or dry skin.

In addition to working with clients, skincare specialists also keep records of skincare regimens that their regular clients use. A growing number of specialists actively sell skincare products, such as cleansers, lotions, and creams.

Those who operate their own salons have managerial duties that may include hiring, supervising, and firing workers, as well as keeping business and inventory records, ordering supplies, and arranging for advertising.  

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition